Woman robbed while playing Pokemon Go

A woman was robbed while playing Pokemon Go near 2 Marina Jack at 9:45 p.m. on Monday.

The victim told officers she was playing the popular augmented reality game on her phone when an unknown male approached her from behind and grabbed her purse that was on her shoulder. She saw the suspect, who she describes as a black male approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, running northbound across U.S. 41 with her purse.

The purse was later recovered, but the victim’s wallet was missing.

The Sarasota Police Department is encouraging residents to exercise safety while playing Pokemon Go. They are advising residents to play the game in groups or pairs to increase safety and remind those playing alone to be aware of their surroundings. Authorities are also discouraging trespassing and playing the game while driving or skateboarding.